Ernesto Valverde: Clásico win would be big step forward

Preparations for Wednesday's Clásico between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid continue with the two teams level on points in La Liga ahead of the game at Camp Nou. Coach Ernesto Valverde appeared before the press on Tuesday: "This year the league is really tight and El Clásico is always close no matter the form of the two teams coming into it."

"Winning the Clásico would be a big step forward in the league before the half way point and it will be a more important game for the winner as they will be three points ahead," added the Barça coach. 

Recent meetings 

“The games we have played in the Bernabéu we have picked up good results. However, at Camp Nou Real Madrid usually play well and are intense in these encounters." 

Arthur Melo

“On Monday he didn't train. It will difficult for him to be involved in the Clásico." 

The importance of stopping Benzema

“He is someone who is having a great season, scoring lots of goals and he is Real's top scorer. We will have to watch him." 

Clásico debut for some

“It's a game that is has something different about it and it is played at a different pace. They will experience it first hand. You can tell it is a Clásico from the players' tunnel before you come out."